Informal recyclers inspected
Complaints highlighted several issues such as pollution, the danger as it is a high traffic zone, and the lack of sanitary facilities and water. Health nuisances such as rats, fly infestation and fires on-site, were also raised.
Inspections were conducted by various departments of the Tshwane metro after complaints were received regarding issues relating to vagrants living next to the Hennops River in Centurion.
DA councillor of ward 69, Cindy Billson said complaints highlighted several issues such as pollution, the danger posed as it is a high traffic zone, and the lack of sanitary facilities and water. Health nuisances such as rats, fly infestation and fires on-site, were also raised.
“These are recyclers living and working alongside Old Johannesburg Road, nearest corner Wierda Road,” Billson said.
“An inspection was conducted by Tshwane Environmental Management and TMPD officers at the site in February this year.
“A follow-up inspection was conducted by the environmental department, TMPD, Tshwane’s waste management department and members from the provincial agriculture and rural development department at the site last week.”
Billson said there were 20 recyclers and four kids seen on that particular site.
“It was found there is no water or sanitation on-site for recyclers, and there are more recyclables that are being collected than what is being sold.
“The recyclers have constructed low housing structures and live there. Fires are being made for cooking and heat during cold weather, which poses a fire risk. There is also evidence of an illegal shebeen business.”
She said Tshwane’s environmental management department gave environmental awareness training to the waste recyclers.
“It was suggested to them to change their way of dealing with the sorting and selling of recyclables. The department also requested Tshwane’s waste management department for assistance in clearing the illegal dumping on the sidewalk.”
Billson said the waste department was instructed to investigate a long-term solution for these informal recyclers as they are aiding in the reduction of waste that goes to the landfill.
“No matter where one moves them to, they will just find another site to occupy.
“Tshwane’s environmental health department was instructed to monitor the site for the possible environmental health impacts.
“Police was requested to monitor the site for illegal trading of alcohol and Tshwane’s human settlements department will be informed of the illegal structures.”
Metro spokesperson, Lindela Mashigo confirmed that “recommendations from the deliberations by role players involved were made”.
“This is merely for consideration. Until such time there is action on those recommendations, we will give an update on matters that concern the city.”
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
